Last week, unofficial images of Chinese Chengdu J-10C semi-stealth 4.5-generation advanced multirole fighter jets with Pakistan Air Force (PAF) markings surfaced online.
While the deal between China and Pakistan for the acquisition of a total of 36 J-10Cs is expected to be made official on the occasion of the Pakistan Day Parade on March 23, with the induction of 25 jets initially, defense experts have lauded the two neighbors’ strengthening bilateral defence cooperation.
Shi Hong, Executive Chief Editor of the Chinese magazine Shipborne Weapons, stated in this regard that the J-10C deal heralds the start of a new era of defence cooperation between China and Pakistan because it is the first time the former has exported the jets to any other country.
Because it is larger in size and can carry more advanced fourth-generation air-to-air missiles such as the short-range PL-10 and beyond-visual-range PL-15, the J-10C jet is more powerful than the JF-17, which was developed jointly by China and Pakistan.
It is also more powerful than the PAF’s F-16 jet and the French Rafale jet, which recently entered service with the Indian Air Force (IAF).
Shi Hong clarified that the J-10C will not replace the PAF’s current JF-17, but that the combination of both fighter jets will consolidate the PAF’s aerial defensive and combat capabilities.
To read our latest blog on “India’s most advanced missile defence system can’t stop the PAF’s latest JF-17 Block III fighter jets,” click here.
